Score Cash Back While You Shop: A Beginner's Guide to Using Rakuten

Hey there, savvy shopper! If you love getting the most bang for your buck (who doesn't?), then you need to know about Rakuten. It's a fantastic way to earn cash back on your online purchases. Whether you’re new to Rakuten or just need a refresher, this guide will walk you through everything you need to start earning cash back on your shopping sprees. Let’s dive in!

What is Rakuten?

Rakuten (formerly known as Ebates) is a cash-back and shopping rewards platform. When you shop through Rakuten at your favorite online stores, you earn a percentage of your purchase back in cash. It's like getting paid to shop!

Step-by-Step Guide to Using Rakuten

1. Sign Up for Rakuten

First things first, you need an account. Here’s how to get started:

  1. Visit Rakuten’s Website: Use this link to get a $30 sign-up bonus with Rakuten.
  2. Sign Up: Click on the “Join Now” button. You can sign up using your email address, Google, or Facebook account.
  3. Get the Welcome Bonus: Rakuten often offers a welcome bonus for new users. Check their current promotions to make sure you don’t miss out on extra cash.

2. Install the Rakuten Browser Extension

To make sure you never miss out on cash back, install the Rakuten browser extension. Here’s how:

  1. Go to the Browser Extension Page: Find it on the Rakuten website under “Tools” or search for “Rakuten Extension” in your browser’s extension store.
  2. Add to Browser: Click “Add to [Your Browser]” and follow the prompts to install it.
  3. Activate: Once installed, you’ll see a little Rakuten icon in your browser. Click it to log in.

3. Start Shopping

Now the fun part—shopping!

  1. Shop Through the Rakuten Website:
    • Log in to Rakuten: Make sure you’re logged in.
    • Find a Store: Use the search bar or browse categories to find your favorite stores.
    • Click Through: Click on the store’s link on Rakuten to be redirected to the retailer’s website. This ensures your purchase is tracked.
  2. Use the Browser Extension:
    • Automatic Activation: When you visit an online store, the Rakuten extension will pop up if cash back is available. Click “Activate” to ensure you earn cash back on your purchase.

4. Complete Your Purchase

Shop as you normally would. Fill your cart, checkout, and make sure you’re logged into your Rakuten account. Once you complete your purchase, Rakuten tracks it and applies cash back to your account.

5. Check Your Cash Back

After you’ve made a purchase, Rakuten typically confirms the cash back within a few hours to a few days. Here’s how to check it:

  1. Log into Rakuten: Go to your Rakuten account.
  2. View Cash Back Balance: Click on your account and view your cash back balance. You can see recent activity and pending cash back.

6. Get Paid

Rakuten pays out cash back quarterly. You can choose to receive your cash back via PayPal or a check in the mail. Here’s how to set it up:

  1. Go to Account Settings: Log in and navigate to your account settings.
  2. Payment Preferences: Select your preferred payment method—either PayPal or a check.
  3. Wait for Payday: Rakuten sends payments every three months, as long as you have earned over $5.01 in cash back.

Tips to Maximize Your Cash Back

  • Stack Savings: Use Rakuten along with coupon codes and sales for maximum savings.
  • Refer Friends: Rakuten has a referral program. When you refer friends and they make a purchase, you both earn a bonus.
  • Stay Informed: Sign up for Rakuten’s email alerts to stay updated on double cash back offers and special promotions.
  • Use Rakuten Travel: Book your travel through Rakuten and earn cash back on flights, hotels, and car rentals.

Conclusion

Using Rakuten is a no-brainer if you shop online. It’s easy to set up, and once you start, you’ll be amazed at how quickly the cash back adds up. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to earning money back on the things you already buy. Happy shopping and saving!

Cheers to getting paid to shop! 💸

Back to blog